Alburtis Police Chief Robert Palmer retired from the Alburtis Police Department after 16 1/2 years. Palmer was honored Jan. 7 by his department members and representatives from area police departments. Also included was Alburtis Mayor Kathleen Palmer and various members of Alburtis Borough Council as well as staff members. Palmer was previously a member of the Allentown Police Department where he ascended the ranks for 25 1/2 years. He has been the police chief in Alburtis since 2005. Memorable events include stopping and greeting the residents, floods, fires and truck madness, along with many other events too numerous to mention. RIGHT: “It was an honor and pleasure to serve the residents of Alburtis,” Palmer says during a retirement celebration Jan. 7. Additional photos appear on Page A5. PRESS PHOTO BY SHARON SCHRANTZ

Various area police departments are represented at Alburtis Police Chief Robert Palmer's retirement party. Pictured from left: Ray Bolger, Alburtis Police Department, Troy Schantz, Emmaus Police Chief, Douglas Kish, Catasauqua Police Department, Kyle Bernhard, Macungie Police Department, Vincent Genovese, Coplay Police Department, Alex Smith, Muhlenberg Township Police Department, Christopher Lubenitski, Alburtis Police Department and Travis Kocher, Macungie Police Department.

Officer Ray Bolger, Alburtis Police Chief Robert Palmer and Mayor Kathy Palmer stand together for a photo.

Alburtis Police Chief Robert Palmer prepares for a Champagne toast.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT STONEBACK Alburtis Police Chief Robert Palmer's family attends the retirement celebration Jan. 7 including: standing, left to right: Nancy Huber (sister), Laura Melville (sister), Michael Palmer (brother), Steven Palmer (brother), Staci Palmer (sister-in law), Claire Palmer (mother); seated, left to right: Jill Palmer (wife) and Chief Robert Palmer.